Airmen from the 5th Operations Support Squadron parachute shop pack back-automatic and drag parachutes at Minot Air Force Base, North Dakota. The aircrew flight equipment flight is responsible for maintaining and inspecting all life-saving equipment on the B-52H Stratofortress prior to each mission, and are on-duty for each take-off and landing to correct any potential aircrew-related equipment issues. (U.S. Air Force photos by Airman 1st Class Alyssa M. Akers)

A B-52H Stratofortress flies over Minot Air Force Base, N.D., Jan. 30, 2018. This bomber, along with three others, recently deployed to Europe to exercise a state of readiness at RAF Fairford, United Kingdom. (U.S. Air Force photo by Tech. Sgt. Jarad A. Denton)

RAF FAIRFORD, England - Approximately 300 Airmen, four B-52H Stratofortress aircraft and support equipment assigned to the 5th Bomb Wing at Minot Air Force Base, North Dakota, returned home from their deployment to RAF Fairford, England, Jan. 30.

The sun peaks over the horizon to reveal the icy minefield known as the flight line. Airmen are bundled from head to toe in thermal underwear, thick coveralls, gloves and multiple headgear, but these comforting layers don’t keep them from getting the job done.

RAF FAIRFORD, U.K.— Three B-52H Stratofortresses and Airmen from U.S. Air Force Global Strike Command began conducting missions in support of Saber Strike 17 at Royal Air Force Fairford, United Kingdom, June 5, 2017.

A B-52H Stratofortress soars above the clouds of North Dakota airspace, Jan. 31, 2017. During the mission, the crew ran simulated close air support scenarios, preparing them to support Operation Inherent Resolve with B-52 firepower. (U.S. Air Force photos/Senior Airman J.T. Armstrong)

Airmen from the 5th Aircraft Maintenance Squadron prepare to launch a B-52H Stratofortress at Minot Air Force Base, N.D., Jan. 26, 2017. Crew chiefs are maintenance specialists whose duty is to ensure that aircraft are ready to fly at a moment’s notice. 5th AMXS Airmen work around the clock in all weather conditions to provide B-52 firepower on